Novice Program

All players in the Novice age category (7-8 yrs) will play on a half-ice surface for the duration of the season. Hockey Manitoba’s Novice half-ice model incorporates core elements and concepts from Hockey Canada’s Novice guidelines with a few modifications as outlined in the documents below.

The Novice half-ice format continues age appropriate modifications into the Novice Program with the Long Term Player Development model and philosophy as the fundamental basis for change. Players at the Novice level require a continued focus on physical literacy while also beginning to develop some of the more advanced individual skills inherent in the game. By moving from cross-ice at Initiation to half-ice at Novice, we increase the size of the ice surface in accordance with the increase in the size of player. This modified ice will continue to provide players with an environment that is more inclusive, competitive and conducive to skill development through puck touches and puck control, shots, passes completed, transitions, decision making, puck support, overall involvement…and FUN! In addition, with the creation of the new Development Zone, kids will have up to 40% more ice time during games!

We believe these modifications will benefit every participant and we will support our players, coaches, officials and administrators with a well structured program. Hockey Manitoba asks everyone to approach this continued change with an open mind and to support our direction in a positive manner to allow our players to learn the game in this exciting progressive direction.

Hockey Manitoba has developed a comprehensive 2019 – 2020 Novice Half-Ice Guidelines document to assist our Minor Hockey Associations and Community Clubs in the preparation, implementation and execution of half-ice hockey in the Novice age category. This will ensure a consistent, organized delivery model across the province. Hockey Manitoba has also created the Development Zone Seasonal Plan for all Novice coaches in Manitoba. This includes an outline of specific drills and small area games to be utilized during regular season games. Progressions and key teaching points are also included. The plan includes transitional drills at the end of the season to introduce concepts such as off-sides and icings.

NOVICE & OTHER MODIFIED ICE/AGE APPROPRIATE INFORMATION
We encourage everyone to view the videos, documents and information below that provide additional support for the changes Hockey Manitoba has implemented into its Initiation and Novice programs.

*Please note, although we have incorporated many of the core elements of Hockey Canada’s Novice Guidelines, Hockey Manitoba’s model includes a number of modifications to enhance development, engagement and delivery in a consistent manner across the province.

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